When can I let my hens to free range

[Scooterbing]

My girls are very comfortable in their coop and covered secured run. When can I open the door to the run to let them free range. Thanks. I'm scared

 

[bobbi-j]

How long have they been in their coop/run? I usually give mine at least a week to "home" them to the coop so they know to return at night. A lot of people start letting them free range by letting them out about an hour or so before sundown. They get used to being out, but don't get too far away from home. I just open the gate and let them go in the morning. They usually don't wander very far the first few days. Free ranging is great, but bear in mind there is a greater chance of predator loss. It's not necessarily "if" you'll have a predator, but "when". It could be days, months, or even years. I went for 3 years without a problem.

 

[GC-Raptor]

I didn't let my hens out to free range, till they were 14 months old. Neighbors dogs, coyote, fox, and hawks. But I found a compromise. I let them out 2 hours before sunset daily, weather permitting. 3 months and so far so good.
I had to show them the way back in through the pen gate at sunset for 5 days. They make their way into the pen around sunset, sooner on cloudy days.
My pens gate is only 26 feet from my back door. Far from the tree line.
They have 1 acre of lawn to graze. So far they have stayed on my property. GC